1928
Born to Clement Lynheart Mikesh and Lucile Ellen (Smith) Mikesh in Ottumwa, IA.
1950
Marries Ramona Louise Barton on April 10.
1950
Advances through grades to major within the US Air Force and is a commissioned 2nd lieutenant until 1963.
1964
Writes Eighth Bombardment Squadron History.
1970
Is a museum curator at the National Air and Space Museum within the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., until 1991.
1973
Writes Exhibition Flights and Japan’s WW II Balloon Bomb Attacks on North America.
1975
Writes Aichi M6A1 Seiran: Japan’s Submarine-Launched Panama Canal Bomber.
1976
Writes Japanese Cockpit Interiors, Part I, and releases Part II in 1977.
1982
Writes Aircraft Engines in Museums Around the World.
1983
Is a senior curator of aeronautics within the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
1985
Writes Moonlight Interceptor.
1988
Writes Flying Dragons: The South Vietnamese Air Force.
1990
Writes Japanese Aircraft 1019-1941.
1992
Is on the board of directors of WWI Aero Publication.
1993
Writes Japanese Aircraft: Code Names and Designations; writes Broken Wings of the Samurai and publishes the Japanese edition in 1995.
1994
Writes Zero: Japan’s Legendary Fighter.
1996
Is a member of the advisory board of the US Air Force Museum and presently maintains membership.
1997
Is a trustee of the Bristol Heritage Collection and presently maintains this role.